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Cate Kinkaid Files #2
Dolled Up to Die
When Cate Kinkaid receives a frantic call about a triple homicide, she drives to the scene against her better judgement-aren’t triple homicides more up the police department’s alley?-only to find that the victims are not quite who she expects. Now she has a new rule to add to those she’s learned in her short stint as an assistant private investigator: always find out if the victims actually have human DNA. Because these three do not.
But who would shoot this nice lady’s dolls? What possible reason could the shooter have? And then there’s the startling discovery of another victim, who definitely does have human DNA . . .
With tension that is matched only by humor, Dolled Up to Die is the exciting second book in Lorena McCourtney’s The Cate Kinkaid Files. Mystery fans won’t find a place to stop and take a breath in this fast-paced and intriguing tale.
But who would shoot this nice lady’s dolls? What possible reason could the shooter have? And then there’s the startling discovery of another victim, who definitely does have human DNA . . .
With tension that is matched only by humor, Dolled Up to Die is the exciting second book in Lorena McCourtney’s The Cate Kinkaid Files. Mystery fans won’t find a place to stop and take a breath in this fast-paced and intriguing tale.
320 pages, Paperback
First published July 1, 2013
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 81 reviews
April 21, 2014
I truly enjoyed the Lorena McCourtney’s first book in the Cate Kindkaid mystery series, Dying to Read. It was a light Christian-laced mystery — certainly no The Murder of Roger Ackroyd or Agatha Raisin and the Quiche of Death — but a pleasant enough read for passing the time. The second in the series, Dolled Up to Die, is still pleasant enough, but it’s simply not as good as the first one.
In Dolled Up to Die, the owner of the most expensive restaurant in Eugene, Ore., and a wedding chapel turns up shot to death in his ex-wife’s home. Cate intuits that the ex-wife, ditzy doll maker Jo-Jo Kieferson, isn’t the murder, so she persuades her Uncle Joe, owner of Belmont Investigations, to allow her to poke around. In Dying to Read, Cate bumbled about, and hilarity ensued. Here it all kind of falls flat. A secondary plot about a Bridezilla serves merely to annoy not just Cate but the reader, as well. The action in Dolled Up to Die crawls at a snail’s pace for more than half of the book, at which point, admittedly, McCourtney introduces a bit of suspense and action. All in all, Dolled Up to Die is simply not as funny or well plotted as the first.
As with Dying to Read, anyone who’s put off by prayer, habitual church-going, and unnatural cheerfulness, or who’s looking for sexy romance or edginess should definitely look elsewhere. I found this book more preachy than the first, and that wouldn’t have been an obstacle — for me, anyway — had the plot been less pedestrian and the laughs more plentiful. I didn’t think Dolled Up to Die was terrible, but I think I can do better elsewhere.
In Dolled Up to Die, the owner of the most expensive restaurant in Eugene, Ore., and a wedding chapel turns up shot to death in his ex-wife’s home. Cate intuits that the ex-wife, ditzy doll maker Jo-Jo Kieferson, isn’t the murder, so she persuades her Uncle Joe, owner of Belmont Investigations, to allow her to poke around. In Dying to Read, Cate bumbled about, and hilarity ensued. Here it all kind of falls flat. A secondary plot about a Bridezilla serves merely to annoy not just Cate but the reader, as well. The action in Dolled Up to Die crawls at a snail’s pace for more than half of the book, at which point, admittedly, McCourtney introduces a bit of suspense and action. All in all, Dolled Up to Die is simply not as funny or well plotted as the first.
As with Dying to Read, anyone who’s put off by prayer, habitual church-going, and unnatural cheerfulness, or who’s looking for sexy romance or edginess should definitely look elsewhere. I found this book more preachy than the first, and that wouldn’t have been an obstacle — for me, anyway — had the plot been less pedestrian and the laughs more plentiful. I didn’t think Dolled Up to Die was terrible, but I think I can do better elsewhere.
March 18, 2019
Cate gets a call saying there has been a triple homicide, turns out that it was the lady’s life size dolls, then she finds a victim, the lady’s ex husband. Cate is also dealing with her friend’s over the top wedding and moving into the house she inherited if she takes care of a cat. Some funny parts.
July 25, 2013
Lorena McCourtney has done it again! Written with her signature humorous style, "Dolled up To Die" had me in stitches chapter after chapter, just as with the first book in the series, "Dying to Read". Cate Kinkaid continues to captivate me with her gutsy determination to solve murders, along with some bumbling attempts and misguided notions that made for some truly funny scenes. The book is filled with action-packed drama and had me zooming through the pages. I couldn't put it down because I simply had to find out what Cate would try next! Along with laughs and some true moments of suspense, the novel also celebrates the meaning of true friendship, even when it pushes us out of our comfort zones. The author also manages to present a clear gospel message without coming across as pushy. The dialogue is witty, and there is just enough romance without becoming too mushy for male readers. As such, both females and males will enjoy Cate's latest adventure!
I dare you to read this book without at least cracking a grin. If you are looking for an enjoyable suspenseful read, then pick up a copy of "Dolled up to Die". You'll be glad you did! 4.5 out of 5 stars.
Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc. Available at your favourite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.
I dare you to read this book without at least cracking a grin. If you are looking for an enjoyable suspenseful read, then pick up a copy of "Dolled up to Die". You'll be glad you did! 4.5 out of 5 stars.
Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc. Available at your favourite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.
September 12, 2022
It wasn't what I thought it would be and I was glad I was surprised. Too many times you watch or hear about mysteries with dolls as the background and they make the doll maker and/or dolls creepy or just too into dolls! That isn't the case with Lorena's work. I actually found great interest in the doll maker's work and I wouldn't have minded Lorena going into how the dolls are made even more. I LOVE Lorena's style of writing and immediately loved her characters. The only flaw, if you want to call it a flaw, I personally found was that I wished Cate used a little more common sense at times, was a little more observant (and I don't mean when she's in a high stress situation it made sense why she didn't "pay attention to detail" when she was fighting for her life!) and paid a little bit more attention to the things people said. There where times when I felt facts where repeated. I LOVED the high suspense scenes (especially the final one) and I loved Cate's personal life as well as her professional life. I also LOVE to read a book with a cat in it when the author knows cats! Octavia's personality is so feline fantastic! From her peering at people to having cat fits I loved every word of it, and humor is woven into this book, even the high suspense scenes, beautifully!! :) When the first in this series came out I was interested in reading it, vaguely, but never got it. So when I got the chance to read Dolled Up to Die I jumped at it, and I'm SO glad I did. I REALLY want to read the first book in this series now (so I recommend if you don't have the first one yet get them both ;) ) and one more detail I wanted to compliment Lorena on. Her witnessing! This book is SO good at relying on God to help and lead you and her characters are great examples of being Christian witnesses! :) Over all I LOVED this book and I highly recommend it!!!
I had some trouble coming up with songs for this book. That was sad because I loved it so much! I did however come up with these: "Center of It" by Chris August and because I think it's a good P.I. song "Pink Panther" by The Western Swing Authority if I am struck with inspiration I'll update this post.
Acts 16:31
~ASC
I had some trouble coming up with songs for this book. That was sad because I loved it so much! I did however come up with these: "Center of It" by Chris August and because I think it's a good P.I. song "Pink Panther" by The Western Swing Authority if I am struck with inspiration I'll update this post.
Acts 16:31
~ASC
July 1, 2016
Another fun whodunit in this fantastic series.
June 21, 2017
This is the second in the series The Care Kincaid Files. It follows Cate Kincaid as she continues her career as an Assistant Private Investigator. I fell in love with her character in the first book of the series. This book took me a while to get into. Once I got into I couldn't put it down. Cate is not he best at her chosen profession but I love how she tries hard. I appreciate how she does a lot of self reflection and self correction. I also enjoy that she has simple conversations with God. I enjoyed reading about her new adventure and look forward to reading the third and last book in this series.
November 21, 2020
I like this series, and I really like Lorena McCourtney's writing style. I read all her "Ivy Malone" series and got a good laugh at the comments she made about being a possum gray-haired older woman who is invisible.
This series has the main character of Cate Kincaid who has fallen into being a private investigator, courtesy of her Uncle Joe. She didn't have any direction in her life before this but now seems to be finding her way. She gets herself in some predicaments, but she's not afraid to try and figure her way out of them!
I'm looking forward to reading more in the series to see what happens next! :D
This series has the main character of Cate Kincaid who has fallen into being a private investigator, courtesy of her Uncle Joe. She didn't have any direction in her life before this but now seems to be finding her way. She gets herself in some predicaments, but she's not afraid to try and figure her way out of them!
I'm looking forward to reading more in the series to see what happens next! :D
October 15, 2023
Another enjoyable, funny, and suspenseful series for Cate. I love her determination of sticking with her new career of private investigator as she helps her friend Jo-Jo with a mystery. Mitch is not always supportive of Cate's antics as she solves the mysteries but he's always there to help her when she asks and even when she doesn't. Loved Cate's sense of humor about her role in Robyn's wedding and how she helped Kim pull the event together for Robyn. The mystery kept me guessing! Looking forward to seeing Cate's adventures in the next book.
December 6, 2017
I love reading Lorena McCourtney's books. She writes beautifully, is entertaining, and detailed without losing the flow of the story. "With tension that is matched only by humor" describes this book well. As a Christian murder mystery author, which is how she describes herself, she does this very well.
November 22, 2024
Enjoying this light-hearted series. Glad a friend recommended it to me since she'd read the first one. Now I'm through with the second in this series, ready to begin the next one starring Cate and Mitch. Have a religious tinge, no sex scenes (even if there are inuendoes). Loving it.
July 29, 2017
I enjoyed this very much and hope she has more Cate Kincaid files to follow.
May 29, 2018
I'm just in love with Cate and Mitch!!! I love these books. Great story with a Christian twist.
March 12, 2019
Fun cozy with characters who pray.
September 17, 2020
I was hooked from the beginning and enjoyed reading it again after a few years - I was surprised by the end.
July 31, 2021
A mystery that doesn't take itself too seriously. Fun, light, a little simple.
March 25, 2023
I really enjoyed reading Dolled Up to Die. I've read several of Lorena McCourtney's books. They're a clean, entertaining read that keep me guessing until the end.
June 15, 2023
3.5 stars
I liked this second book in the series much more than the first.
I liked this second book in the series much more than the first.
September 21, 2023
This is a fun series and easy to read. Good characters and interesting mysteries!
May 21, 2025
Christian author
November 8, 2017
A "clean" story - no cussing and references to God on darn near every page. Not my cup of tea but an enjoyable book.
July 20, 2013
When Assistant Private Investigator Cate Kinkaid gets a frantic call about a triple homicide, Cate goes to the scene of the crime against her better judgment. After all Belmont Investigations doesn't do murders. Only, the victims aren't what she expected. Now she has a new rule and three shot dolls and no way of knowing why someone would shoot this nice lady's dolls.
Just when Cate is ready to leave this to the police she finds another victim, this time an actual person. Cate wants to leave it in the hands of the police but her client and her PI instincts get in the way of her letting this one go. So she goes on the hunt for the killer and with an endless amount of suspects, she knows it isn't going to be easy to track down the killer or his weapon.
As Cate narrows down her suspects and tries to solve this crime, she finds she always ends up at the scene of a crime. But when she and the killer have an altercation, Cate knows she doesn't have long before he either recognizes her or she recognizes him and she needs to nail him before then. Join Cate on another adventure as she tries to solve yet another murder with her deaf cat and all the hilarious hi jinx that come along with her.
Can Cate manage to catch another killer or will this one grab her before she grabs him? Will Cate's client end up being the killer or will she find out who really did it in time? Can Cate manage to not get kidnapped like last time or will she yet again be nabbed and held hostage? Will Mitch have to come to the rescue again or will Cate be able to catch a killer by herself?
-----------------------------------
I thoroughly enjoyed the first book in this series and was excited to get the chance to read the second book in this hilarious mystery series. And I must say that the hi jinx and clumsy encounters just get even funnier. This book made me week and was easy to get hooked on. Though, for me it was a bit too easy to figure out the killer, I still enjoyed watching Cate try and figure out just who did what.
This book is a mixture of humor and mystery with a dash of romance and I loved every minute of it. As far as romance goes, this book is a follow-up on the first and made up for the lack of romance in the first with showing the reader their little quirks and interactions as a couple in this one. It allowed me to really see them become close emotionally. Also, the added humor in this book not only lightened it up when it needed to but also added a bit of character to the story and characters, making this story memorable.
The murder mystery was interesting. Though I figured out the killer about halfway through the book, with such a wide array of characters as suspects, I spent most of that time trying to figure out if my guess really did do it. I liked that. It made me feel like I was just starting out again. I also loved how the story played out and the motive behind the killings. It gave the story a whole new air of mystery to it.
The thing I loved most about this book, though, was Cate. She's clumsy, sometimes naive, and she always manages to get herself in sticky situations but that's what makes her so lovable. I love watching her become an even better PI as the series goes along and I love the fact that she always uses Mitch as a bodyguard/tech geek, because I would too. Her character is fallible, literally, yet sound in her beliefs and I love her. She's the real reason I pick up these books.
The author captured my attention with her mysteries in the first book in this series, but she really grabbed me in this one. I can see why she's award winning and is a best selling author. I look forward to reading more in this series and seeing how many books there will be. I can't wait to see what other adventures I will go on with this author. This author, series, and book come highly recommended.
Overall, I loved this one. It's the perfect mixture of humor, mystery, and romance. I recommend this book to people who like a good mystery with a comical twist. I think this book is perfect for teens, adults, and Tweens with adult supervision. I give this book a four and a half out of five.
Just when Cate is ready to leave this to the police she finds another victim, this time an actual person. Cate wants to leave it in the hands of the police but her client and her PI instincts get in the way of her letting this one go. So she goes on the hunt for the killer and with an endless amount of suspects, she knows it isn't going to be easy to track down the killer or his weapon.
As Cate narrows down her suspects and tries to solve this crime, she finds she always ends up at the scene of a crime. But when she and the killer have an altercation, Cate knows she doesn't have long before he either recognizes her or she recognizes him and she needs to nail him before then. Join Cate on another adventure as she tries to solve yet another murder with her deaf cat and all the hilarious hi jinx that come along with her.
Can Cate manage to catch another killer or will this one grab her before she grabs him? Will Cate's client end up being the killer or will she find out who really did it in time? Can Cate manage to not get kidnapped like last time or will she yet again be nabbed and held hostage? Will Mitch have to come to the rescue again or will Cate be able to catch a killer by herself?
-----------------------------------
I thoroughly enjoyed the first book in this series and was excited to get the chance to read the second book in this hilarious mystery series. And I must say that the hi jinx and clumsy encounters just get even funnier. This book made me week and was easy to get hooked on. Though, for me it was a bit too easy to figure out the killer, I still enjoyed watching Cate try and figure out just who did what.
This book is a mixture of humor and mystery with a dash of romance and I loved every minute of it. As far as romance goes, this book is a follow-up on the first and made up for the lack of romance in the first with showing the reader their little quirks and interactions as a couple in this one. It allowed me to really see them become close emotionally. Also, the added humor in this book not only lightened it up when it needed to but also added a bit of character to the story and characters, making this story memorable.
The murder mystery was interesting. Though I figured out the killer about halfway through the book, with such a wide array of characters as suspects, I spent most of that time trying to figure out if my guess really did do it. I liked that. It made me feel like I was just starting out again. I also loved how the story played out and the motive behind the killings. It gave the story a whole new air of mystery to it.
The thing I loved most about this book, though, was Cate. She's clumsy, sometimes naive, and she always manages to get herself in sticky situations but that's what makes her so lovable. I love watching her become an even better PI as the series goes along and I love the fact that she always uses Mitch as a bodyguard/tech geek, because I would too. Her character is fallible, literally, yet sound in her beliefs and I love her. She's the real reason I pick up these books.
The author captured my attention with her mysteries in the first book in this series, but she really grabbed me in this one. I can see why she's award winning and is a best selling author. I look forward to reading more in this series and seeing how many books there will be. I can't wait to see what other adventures I will go on with this author. This author, series, and book come highly recommended.
Overall, I loved this one. It's the perfect mixture of humor, mystery, and romance. I recommend this book to people who like a good mystery with a comical twist. I think this book is perfect for teens, adults, and Tweens with adult supervision. I give this book a four and a half out of five.
September 8, 2014
Cate Kinkaid is a private investigator—assistant PI, she's quick to point out, which means she's not allowed to carry a gun. Not that she should need one, since Belmont Investigations doesn't take cases involving violence. Somebody should tell the criminals that last bit, because Dolled Up to Die is Cate's second encounter with murder.
Cate wants to find out who killed her client JoJo's ex-husband before the police decide it was JoJo herself. JoJo designs custom-made, child-sized dolls. She may talk about them as if they're real, and she may have a donkey for a watchdog, but she's not a killer... is she?
The Cate Kincaid Files books are cozy mysteries, with interesting characters and more focus on solving the crime than on frightening the reader. Even when Cate's in danger, the suspense isn't over-the-top. Cate is lovably impulsive, a bit too sympathetic for her own good, and not so sure of herself, but she's enjoying this PI gig and she's still alive to tell about it.
This story has a bit more Christian content than the previous one, because one of the characters professes to be able to discover facts about people's "past lives" and when she encourages Cate's boyfriend, Mitch, to try it out, he's uncomfortable enough that he blurts out his Christian view of the subject in self-defense.
Octavia the deaf cat is back in this book, occasionally trying her paw at assisting the assistant PI. Octavia isn't as adept as the cats in Lilian Jackson Braun's The Cat Who... series, but she occasionally points Cate in a useful direction.
You don't have to have read the first book, Dying to Read , to enjoy this one, but if you plan to read them both, do it in order to avoid spoilers. New York Times best-selling author Lorena McCourtney is perhaps most widely known for her Ivy Malone series, where "LOL" means "Little Old Lady." If you like Ivy, or you like mysteries with a bit of humour, check out Cate Kincaid. You can read an excerpt of Dolled up to Die, or view the readers group guide if you've already read it, by clicking the links.
[Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc. Available at your favourite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.]
Cate wants to find out who killed her client JoJo's ex-husband before the police decide it was JoJo herself. JoJo designs custom-made, child-sized dolls. She may talk about them as if they're real, and she may have a donkey for a watchdog, but she's not a killer... is she?
The Cate Kincaid Files books are cozy mysteries, with interesting characters and more focus on solving the crime than on frightening the reader. Even when Cate's in danger, the suspense isn't over-the-top. Cate is lovably impulsive, a bit too sympathetic for her own good, and not so sure of herself, but she's enjoying this PI gig and she's still alive to tell about it.
This story has a bit more Christian content than the previous one, because one of the characters professes to be able to discover facts about people's "past lives" and when she encourages Cate's boyfriend, Mitch, to try it out, he's uncomfortable enough that he blurts out his Christian view of the subject in self-defense.
Octavia the deaf cat is back in this book, occasionally trying her paw at assisting the assistant PI. Octavia isn't as adept as the cats in Lilian Jackson Braun's The Cat Who... series, but she occasionally points Cate in a useful direction.
You don't have to have read the first book, Dying to Read , to enjoy this one, but if you plan to read them both, do it in order to avoid spoilers. New York Times best-selling author Lorena McCourtney is perhaps most widely known for her Ivy Malone series, where "LOL" means "Little Old Lady." If you like Ivy, or you like mysteries with a bit of humour, check out Cate Kincaid. You can read an excerpt of Dolled up to Die, or view the readers group guide if you've already read it, by clicking the links.
[Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc. Available at your favourite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.]
August 21, 2013
Hello Friends! Today a have for you a book review of Lorena McCourtney's Dolled Up to Die. I received a copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for a review, but don't worry - that hasn't influenced what I have to say about the book. :)
Dolled Up To Die is the second book in her Cate Kincaid Files series, which I actually didn't realize when I first got the book. I have not read the first book, and while I missed a tiny bit of background, the overall story and mystery were not affected by not reading the first book. I've read some of her other books, and enjoyed them, which is why I chose this one when I saw it available.
Summary: Ok, on to the story! Cate Kincaid is an assistant PI in her uncle's firm. Working on getting her full PI license, Cate helps her uncle with his cases, and even finds some of her own to solve. Her uncle's only rule: we don't do murder. Of course, Cate does her best to avoid those cases, but well, they just keep falling into her lap. Once there, she can't just ignore them - people are counting on her! This is the case with her latest adventure. Called to the home of Jo-Jo, the ex-wife of one of Eugene, Oregon's wealthiest business owners, Cate is there to investigate what she thought were three homicides. Once there, she discovers no homicides, but three life-size dolls that have been shot. As she tries to calm Jo-Jo, their owner and creator down, she discovers there really has been a murder! Eddie the Ex - Jo-Jo's ex-husband has been shot in another room of the house! With the help of her boyfriend, Mitch, and sometimes the police, Cate must help Jo-Jo find out who killed Eddie the Ex and why. Filled with murder, a deaf cat, a friend's "has to be perfect" wedding, and some interesting twists, this cozy mystery is a good afternoon's read.
What I liked: I enjoyed the cat, Octavia, who is apparently a mainstay in the first book as well. She is a hoot and causes just a bit too much trouble for Cate sometimes. I also enjoyed the interplay between Cate and her boyfriend Mitch. Cate's interactions with the suspects are also fun. I also appreciate that the importance of attention to detail is emphasized as well. Sometimes we miss things because we are too frazzled, or aren't paying attention. Other times there is too much detail, and we have to pick and choose what does matter. They mystery itself was good and kept me guessing.
What I didn't care for: Some of the suspects are into New Age type stuff, and past life regression, and while the focus wasn't on that, the presence of it did make me a bit uncomfortable. The situation was dealt with appropriately, and Cate and Mitch used those situations to share Christ, but it is just one of those things that people need to be careful about dabbling in, in my opinion. Some things at the end weren't wrapped up all that well, but I suppose that makes it more realistic to not have all the answers. Still, for the reader, it can be a bit annoying.
Overall, a fun read on a rainy afternoon. Good mystery, fun and quirky characters. Hope you enjoy it!
Sarah K
Dolled Up To Die is the second book in her Cate Kincaid Files series, which I actually didn't realize when I first got the book. I have not read the first book, and while I missed a tiny bit of background, the overall story and mystery were not affected by not reading the first book. I've read some of her other books, and enjoyed them, which is why I chose this one when I saw it available.
Summary: Ok, on to the story! Cate Kincaid is an assistant PI in her uncle's firm. Working on getting her full PI license, Cate helps her uncle with his cases, and even finds some of her own to solve. Her uncle's only rule: we don't do murder. Of course, Cate does her best to avoid those cases, but well, they just keep falling into her lap. Once there, she can't just ignore them - people are counting on her! This is the case with her latest adventure. Called to the home of Jo-Jo, the ex-wife of one of Eugene, Oregon's wealthiest business owners, Cate is there to investigate what she thought were three homicides. Once there, she discovers no homicides, but three life-size dolls that have been shot. As she tries to calm Jo-Jo, their owner and creator down, she discovers there really has been a murder! Eddie the Ex - Jo-Jo's ex-husband has been shot in another room of the house! With the help of her boyfriend, Mitch, and sometimes the police, Cate must help Jo-Jo find out who killed Eddie the Ex and why. Filled with murder, a deaf cat, a friend's "has to be perfect" wedding, and some interesting twists, this cozy mystery is a good afternoon's read.
What I liked: I enjoyed the cat, Octavia, who is apparently a mainstay in the first book as well. She is a hoot and causes just a bit too much trouble for Cate sometimes. I also enjoyed the interplay between Cate and her boyfriend Mitch. Cate's interactions with the suspects are also fun. I also appreciate that the importance of attention to detail is emphasized as well. Sometimes we miss things because we are too frazzled, or aren't paying attention. Other times there is too much detail, and we have to pick and choose what does matter. They mystery itself was good and kept me guessing.
What I didn't care for: Some of the suspects are into New Age type stuff, and past life regression, and while the focus wasn't on that, the presence of it did make me a bit uncomfortable. The situation was dealt with appropriately, and Cate and Mitch used those situations to share Christ, but it is just one of those things that people need to be careful about dabbling in, in my opinion. Some things at the end weren't wrapped up all that well, but I suppose that makes it more realistic to not have all the answers. Still, for the reader, it can be a bit annoying.
Overall, a fun read on a rainy afternoon. Good mystery, fun and quirky characters. Hope you enjoy it!
Sarah K
July 18, 2013
Lorena McCourtney in her new book “Dolled Up To Die” Book Two in The Cate Kinkaid Files series published by Revell Books gives us a new adventure with Cate Kinkaid.
From the Back Cover: Cate’s not sure just what she expected…but she knows it certainly wasn’t this…
When Cate Kinkaid receives a frantic call about a triple homicide, she drives to the scene against her better judgement-aren’t triple homicides more up the police department’s alley?-only to find that the victims are not quite who she expects. Now she has a new rule to add to those she’s learned in her short stint as an assistant private investigator: always find out if the victims actually have human DNA. Because these three do not.
But who would shoot this nice lady’s dolls? What possible reason could the shooter have? And then there’s the startling discovery of another victim, who definitely does have human DNA . . .
With tension that is matched only by humor, Dolled Up to Die is the exciting second book in Lorena McCourtney’s The Cate Kinkaid Files. Mystery fans won’t find a place to stop and take a breath in this fast-paced and intriguing tale.
Assistant PI Cate Kincaid is back. This time Cate goes to investigate a triple homicide shooting only to find out that the victims were dolls. When she decides to really investigate a real body shows up and the case is on. Ms. McCourtney has given us a prize in Cate Kincaid. This is a fun read, it is a fast read, however I do not recommend starting this book late at night because it will cost you sleep as you will not want to put it down as you try to figure out who the killer is. Ms. McCourtney is an excellent writer who knows how to twist your nerve endings as she tightens the suspense. I recommend this book and I am looking forward to the next book in this series.
You can find “Dolled Up To Die” at a discount at http://www.deepershopping.com/item/mc...
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Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Revell Publishers. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
Available July 2013 at your favorite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.
From the Back Cover: Cate’s not sure just what she expected…but she knows it certainly wasn’t this…
When Cate Kinkaid receives a frantic call about a triple homicide, she drives to the scene against her better judgement-aren’t triple homicides more up the police department’s alley?-only to find that the victims are not quite who she expects. Now she has a new rule to add to those she’s learned in her short stint as an assistant private investigator: always find out if the victims actually have human DNA. Because these three do not.
But who would shoot this nice lady’s dolls? What possible reason could the shooter have? And then there’s the startling discovery of another victim, who definitely does have human DNA . . .
With tension that is matched only by humor, Dolled Up to Die is the exciting second book in Lorena McCourtney’s The Cate Kinkaid Files. Mystery fans won’t find a place to stop and take a breath in this fast-paced and intriguing tale.
Assistant PI Cate Kincaid is back. This time Cate goes to investigate a triple homicide shooting only to find out that the victims were dolls. When she decides to really investigate a real body shows up and the case is on. Ms. McCourtney has given us a prize in Cate Kincaid. This is a fun read, it is a fast read, however I do not recommend starting this book late at night because it will cost you sleep as you will not want to put it down as you try to figure out who the killer is. Ms. McCourtney is an excellent writer who knows how to twist your nerve endings as she tightens the suspense. I recommend this book and I am looking forward to the next book in this series.
You can find “Dolled Up To Die” at a discount at http://www.deepershopping.com/item/mc...
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Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Revell Publishers. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
Available July 2013 at your favorite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.
September 27, 2016
The second mystery featuring Cate Kincaid. Found it as enjoyable as the first. The romance adds that little extra something, too!
January 12, 2017
Title: Dolled Up to Die - Cate Kinkaid Files Book 2
Author: Lorena McCourtney
Published: 7-15-2013
Publisher: Revel
Pages: 322
Genre: Mystery, Thrillers & Suspense
Sub Genre: Women Sleuths; Private Detectives; Inspirational Fiction
ISBN: 13: 9780800721596
ASIN: B00B85M50Y
Reviewer: DelAnne
Reviewed For: NetGalley
Rating: 4.5 Stars
I received a copy of "Dolled Up to Die" from NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for my honest review.
From the Back Cover:
Cate's not sure just what she expected . . . but she knows it certainly wasn't this.
When Cate Kinkaid receives a frantic call about a triple homicide, she drives to the scene against her better judgment--aren't triple homicides more up the police department's alley?--only to find that the victims are not quite who she expects. Now she has a new rule to add to everything she's learned in her short stint as an assistant private investigator: always find out if the victims have human DNA. Because these three do not.
But who would shoot this nice lady's dolls? What possible reason could the shooter have? And then there's the startling discovery of another victim, who definitely "does" have human DNA . . .
With tension that is matched only by humor, "Dolled Up to Die" is the exciting second book in Lorena McCourtney's Cate Kinkaid Files. You won't find a place to stop and take a breath in this fast-paced story.
My Review of "Dolled Up to Die":
A wide variety of characters both main and support. Each with their own individual quirks and personalities. Cate herself is a charming character who feels for her clients and works hard at discovering the truth through the unusual beginning to the big reveal at the end. Octavia steals your heart. "Dolled Up to Die" moves at a quick pace. Having not read the previous book, "Dying to Read" did not influence my enjoyment of this book. A great cozy read for any lover of light mysteries. My rating is 4.5 out of 5 stars.
Amazon link: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00B85M50Y/...
Barnes and Noble link: http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/dolle...
GoodReads link: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/1...
The Reading Room link: https://www.facebook.com/permalink.ph...
Author: Lorena McCourtney
Published: 7-15-2013
Publisher: Revel
Pages: 322
Genre: Mystery, Thrillers & Suspense
Sub Genre: Women Sleuths; Private Detectives; Inspirational Fiction
ISBN: 13: 9780800721596
ASIN: B00B85M50Y
Reviewer: DelAnne
Reviewed For: NetGalley
Rating: 4.5 Stars
I received a copy of "Dolled Up to Die" from NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for my honest review.
From the Back Cover:
Cate's not sure just what she expected . . . but she knows it certainly wasn't this.
When Cate Kinkaid receives a frantic call about a triple homicide, she drives to the scene against her better judgment--aren't triple homicides more up the police department's alley?--only to find that the victims are not quite who she expects. Now she has a new rule to add to everything she's learned in her short stint as an assistant private investigator: always find out if the victims have human DNA. Because these three do not.
But who would shoot this nice lady's dolls? What possible reason could the shooter have? And then there's the startling discovery of another victim, who definitely "does" have human DNA . . .
With tension that is matched only by humor, "Dolled Up to Die" is the exciting second book in Lorena McCourtney's Cate Kinkaid Files. You won't find a place to stop and take a breath in this fast-paced story.
My Review of "Dolled Up to Die":
A wide variety of characters both main and support. Each with their own individual quirks and personalities. Cate herself is a charming character who feels for her clients and works hard at discovering the truth through the unusual beginning to the big reveal at the end. Octavia steals your heart. "Dolled Up to Die" moves at a quick pace. Having not read the previous book, "Dying to Read" did not influence my enjoyment of this book. A great cozy read for any lover of light mysteries. My rating is 4.5 out of 5 stars.
Amazon link: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00B85M50Y/...
Barnes and Noble link: http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/dolle...
GoodReads link: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/1...
The Reading Room link: https://www.facebook.com/permalink.ph...
July 21, 2013
When a book begins with three gunshot victims, you know it’s going to be intriguing. When those victims turn out to be life-size dolls, you know you’re in for a zany cozy mystery.
That’s the case in DOLLED UP TO DIE when Cate Kinkaid, an assistance private investigator, gets a frantic call from a woman about a triple homicide. Knowing her uncle, owner of the P.I. business, doesn’t want the agency involved in a murder investigation, Cate can’t help herself and goes to see if she can assist the woman in some way.
But when she arrives, she discovers there’s no flashing lights from cop cars and no officers canvassing the scene. Why, because the victims aren’t human but handmade realistic-looking dolls. Someone did, however, shot them and the owner wants Cate to find out who. Within minutes of taking the case, Cate does find a real dead body. It’s in the homeowner’s work room and it’s her ex-husband.
Tension and suspense mount as Cate tracks down the killer of the doll killer.
Author Lorena McCourtney once again mixes humor and suspense for a delightful murder mystery. The story moves at a steady pace pulling the reader in and holding them spellbound until the killer is revealed. With a few twists and turns along the way, readers will be hard-pressed to put the book down.
McCourtney has created likable characters that are well-developed and realistic. The zany secondary characters add flavor to the story. The setting has the feel of a small-town atmosphere with detail descriptions that places the reader among the characters.
DOLLED UP TO DIE is the second installment in the Cate Kinkaid Files, but can be read on its own. Returning fans will enjoy following the continuing story, while new fans won’t be left in the dark by events from the previous story.
This is an intriguing tale that will have you laughing and shaking your head as you follow amateur sleuth Cate Kinkaid on her latest adventure.
FTC Full Disclosure - I requested this book as part of a blog tour and it was sent to me by the publisher in hopes I would review it. However, receiving the complimentary copy did not influence my review.
That’s the case in DOLLED UP TO DIE when Cate Kinkaid, an assistance private investigator, gets a frantic call from a woman about a triple homicide. Knowing her uncle, owner of the P.I. business, doesn’t want the agency involved in a murder investigation, Cate can’t help herself and goes to see if she can assist the woman in some way.
But when she arrives, she discovers there’s no flashing lights from cop cars and no officers canvassing the scene. Why, because the victims aren’t human but handmade realistic-looking dolls. Someone did, however, shot them and the owner wants Cate to find out who. Within minutes of taking the case, Cate does find a real dead body. It’s in the homeowner’s work room and it’s her ex-husband.
Tension and suspense mount as Cate tracks down the killer of the doll killer.
Author Lorena McCourtney once again mixes humor and suspense for a delightful murder mystery. The story moves at a steady pace pulling the reader in and holding them spellbound until the killer is revealed. With a few twists and turns along the way, readers will be hard-pressed to put the book down.
McCourtney has created likable characters that are well-developed and realistic. The zany secondary characters add flavor to the story. The setting has the feel of a small-town atmosphere with detail descriptions that places the reader among the characters.
DOLLED UP TO DIE is the second installment in the Cate Kinkaid Files, but can be read on its own. Returning fans will enjoy following the continuing story, while new fans won’t be left in the dark by events from the previous story.
This is an intriguing tale that will have you laughing and shaking your head as you follow amateur sleuth Cate Kinkaid on her latest adventure.
FTC Full Disclosure - I requested this book as part of a blog tour and it was sent to me by the publisher in hopes I would review it. However, receiving the complimentary copy did not influence my review.
July 16, 2013
Dolled Up to Die
The Cate Kinkaid Files #2
By Lorena McCourtney
When Cate Kinkaid of Belmont Investigations receives a frantic phone call from a woman who has just stumbled upon a triple homicide, Cate is about to be caught up in yet another murder investigation, even though Belmont Investigations didn't handle murders - at least according to Uncle Joe. Cate finds herself in hilariously ridiculous situation just as she did in Dying to Read.
With the help (or more accurately rescuing) of boyfriend Mitch, Cate is on the case of the doll murderer and a real murderer who may be the same person or any number of possible suspects. There's an ex-wife, the new current wife, the mother-in-law, the vineyard manager, the new wife's ex-husband, or an unknown murderer running loose in Eugene, Oregon and Cate is determined to find him, unless it is a her!
Cate is a humorously inept investigator who somehow manages to solve the crime, though escapes through upstairs windows and burning buildings seem to play a prominent role in her cases.
Adding to the fun, Cate is a substitute bridesmaid whose hair doesn't fit the color scheme of the wedding. And the murders are connected to the wedding venue.
Cate Kinkaid is the perfect distraction to a hot summer afternoon. Enjoy a good laugh when Cate's briefcase is stolen and when Octavia turns Cate's very important wedding accessory into a new plaything. Though she sometimes jumps to conclusions before she should Cate is someone you want on your side whether as a friend or an investigator.
Take a break from your day-to-day routine and join Cate as she solves the crime and saves the day! A perfect book to share with your best reading friend!
I was provided a copy of this book by Revell in exchange for my honest review.
Available July 15, 2013 at your favorite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.
The Cate Kinkaid Files #2
By Lorena McCourtney
When Cate Kinkaid of Belmont Investigations receives a frantic phone call from a woman who has just stumbled upon a triple homicide, Cate is about to be caught up in yet another murder investigation, even though Belmont Investigations didn't handle murders - at least according to Uncle Joe. Cate finds herself in hilariously ridiculous situation just as she did in Dying to Read.
With the help (or more accurately rescuing) of boyfriend Mitch, Cate is on the case of the doll murderer and a real murderer who may be the same person or any number of possible suspects. There's an ex-wife, the new current wife, the mother-in-law, the vineyard manager, the new wife's ex-husband, or an unknown murderer running loose in Eugene, Oregon and Cate is determined to find him, unless it is a her!
Cate is a humorously inept investigator who somehow manages to solve the crime, though escapes through upstairs windows and burning buildings seem to play a prominent role in her cases.
Adding to the fun, Cate is a substitute bridesmaid whose hair doesn't fit the color scheme of the wedding. And the murders are connected to the wedding venue.
Cate Kinkaid is the perfect distraction to a hot summer afternoon. Enjoy a good laugh when Cate's briefcase is stolen and when Octavia turns Cate's very important wedding accessory into a new plaything. Though she sometimes jumps to conclusions before she should Cate is someone you want on your side whether as a friend or an investigator.
Take a break from your day-to-day routine and join Cate as she solves the crime and saves the day! A perfect book to share with your best reading friend!
I was provided a copy of this book by Revell in exchange for my honest review.
Available July 15, 2013 at your favorite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.
January 31, 2014
Cate Kincaid wants to become a private investigator like her Uncle. One day she receives a phone call from a very frantic women about a triple homicide. Cate decides to go the victims house against her better judgment. She knows that her boyfriend and uncle will not be happy with her decision. When she gets to the lady's house she is met by a donkey braying which makes her more jumpy and alarmed. Once she meets the lady named JoJo, she walks to the room where the murders took place. She is shocked by the scene, three dolls were shot. These were the victims that were murdered.
Cate isn't sure what to think of JoJo. She finds out by questioning JoJo that she has an ex-husband who didn't like her dolls and JoJo assumes he shot them. Cate decides to walk through the house with JoJo and check things out. When they enter the bedroom they find JoJo's ex-husband dead.
Cate decides that this should be handled by the police and hands it over to them. JoJo calls Cate a few days later and wants to hire her to investigate her ex-husbands murder. Cate learns that JoJo's ex has a new young wife and bossy mother in law. Cate becomes a witness to the mother in laws murder, too. She thinks she has every thing figured out and knows who killed the victims but she is wrong. One night she is confronted by the actual murderer who tries to kill her. Thankfully, her boyfriend and friends are near by and help catch the murderer.
If you enjoy mysteries this book will keep you guessing. I think both adults and teens would enjoy. (rev. S.Wall)
.... fast paced, filled with tension and humor make this a fun read. (ACS blogger)
DISCLOSURE: A complimentary copy was provided by the publisher, Revell a division of Baker House Publishing, in exchange for our honest review. Opinions expressed are solely those of the reviewer. No compensation was received for this review.
Cate isn't sure what to think of JoJo. She finds out by questioning JoJo that she has an ex-husband who didn't like her dolls and JoJo assumes he shot them. Cate decides to walk through the house with JoJo and check things out. When they enter the bedroom they find JoJo's ex-husband dead.
Cate decides that this should be handled by the police and hands it over to them. JoJo calls Cate a few days later and wants to hire her to investigate her ex-husbands murder. Cate learns that JoJo's ex has a new young wife and bossy mother in law. Cate becomes a witness to the mother in laws murder, too. She thinks she has every thing figured out and knows who killed the victims but she is wrong. One night she is confronted by the actual murderer who tries to kill her. Thankfully, her boyfriend and friends are near by and help catch the murderer.
If you enjoy mysteries this book will keep you guessing. I think both adults and teens would enjoy. (rev. S.Wall)
.... fast paced, filled with tension and humor make this a fun read. (ACS blogger)
DISCLOSURE: A complimentary copy was provided by the publisher, Revell a division of Baker House Publishing, in exchange for our honest review. Opinions expressed are solely those of the reviewer. No compensation was received for this review.
July 16, 2013
Title: DOLLED UP TO DIE
Author: Lorena McCourtney
Publisher: Revell
July 2013
ISBN: 978-0800721596
Genre: Cozy mystery
Cate's not sure just what she expected . . . but she knows it certainly wasn't this.
When Cate Kinkaid receives a frantic call about a triple homicide, she drives to the scene against her better judgment--aren't triple homicides more up the police department's alley?--only to find that the victims are not quite who she expects. Now she has a new rule to add to everything she's learned in her short stint as an assistant private investigator: always find out if the victims have human DNA. Because these three do not.
But who would shoot this nice lady's dolls? What possible reason could the shooter have? And then there's the startling discovery of another victim, who definitely does have human DNA . . .
I enjoyed reading DOLLED UP TO DIE and couldn’t put it down. I had to find out what happens. The book does have a lot of New Age mysticism involved (included in the mystery) and parts are a bit scary.
I did guess who might have done it early on, but there were enough red herrings thrown in to keep me guessing as to who really did it. I was initially right though.
With tension that is matched only by humor, DOLLED UP TO DIE is the exciting second book in Lorena McCourtney's Cate Kinkaid Files. You won't find a place to stop and take a breath in this fast-paced story. Readers will want to read the first book, Dying to Read, before this (even though this one stands alone) to be brought up to date with how Cate landed in PI work.
If you love cozy mysteries, then pick up DOLLED UP TO DIE. It is a great book by an award-winning author. $14.99. 320 pages. 5 stars.
Author: Lorena McCourtney
Publisher: Revell
July 2013
ISBN: 978-0800721596
Genre: Cozy mystery
Cate's not sure just what she expected . . . but she knows it certainly wasn't this.
When Cate Kinkaid receives a frantic call about a triple homicide, she drives to the scene against her better judgment--aren't triple homicides more up the police department's alley?--only to find that the victims are not quite who she expects. Now she has a new rule to add to everything she's learned in her short stint as an assistant private investigator: always find out if the victims have human DNA. Because these three do not.
But who would shoot this nice lady's dolls? What possible reason could the shooter have? And then there's the startling discovery of another victim, who definitely does have human DNA . . .
I enjoyed reading DOLLED UP TO DIE and couldn’t put it down. I had to find out what happens. The book does have a lot of New Age mysticism involved (included in the mystery) and parts are a bit scary.
I did guess who might have done it early on, but there were enough red herrings thrown in to keep me guessing as to who really did it. I was initially right though.
With tension that is matched only by humor, DOLLED UP TO DIE is the exciting second book in Lorena McCourtney's Cate Kinkaid Files. You won't find a place to stop and take a breath in this fast-paced story. Readers will want to read the first book, Dying to Read, before this (even though this one stands alone) to be brought up to date with how Cate landed in PI work.
If you love cozy mysteries, then pick up DOLLED UP TO DIE. It is a great book by an award-winning author. $14.99. 320 pages. 5 stars.
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